Fishing and Aquaculture in Mayotte : enormous potential
Faced with growing local demand for fish and under-exploited resources, the island offers an ideal framework for the development of the fishing and aquaculture industries. With 70,000 km² of Exclusive Economic Zone, little exploited by the Mauritian fishing fleet, there is significant potential for development.
Fishing: an industry in need of structure
With an annual production of around 2,500 tons, Mayotte's fishing industry relies mainly on local craftsmen. Heavy dependence on imports (over 50 % of seafood requirements are imported) illustrates the need to structure and modernize this sector. Priorities include :
- The creation of an appropriate port infrastructure (forward bases, tidal halls).
- Development of local processing and marketing.
- The modernization of the small-scale fishing fleet and the development of more sustainable, better-managed fishing to secure stocks.
Aquaculture: a sector to be relaunched
After a promising boom up until 2015, aquaculture in Mauritius is now dormant. However, the lagoon's assets (water quality, stable temperature, pre-identified sites) make it an ideal area for reviving this activity.
Objective 2050
1,000 tonnes of annual production, with a model combining small local producers and industrial investors.
Investment opportunities
- Creation of a secure hatchery that will be eligible for European funding under the FEAMPA program.
- Development of a service platform to support the industry (one-stop shop, market studies, simplified administrative framework).
- Set up an aquaculture research center to identify suitable species and ensure the sustainability of the industry.
Why Investing in Mayotte?
A market in high demand
5,000 tonnes of fish consumed every year, of which 50% is still imported.
The natural setting
Exceptional and preserved for quality aquaculture. A lagoon with all the prerequisites for the development of this activity.
The EEZ
An EEZ of 70,000 km² little exploited by the Mauritian fishing fleet
Institutional support
Strong institutional support with available funding.
Mayotte has the potential to become a regional center of excellence in fishing and aquaculture. Investors looking to participate in a sustainable blue economy will find it a fertile ground for innovation and development.